Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow vs. Akko V3 Cream Black Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro mechanical keyboard switches, both are linear switches that offer their own unique characteristics. The CAP V2 Milky Yellow is praised for its innovative CAP structure, ensuring smooth and stable keystrokes with minimal resistance. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro is known for its budget-friendly yet high-quality design, providing a distinctive poppy and clacky sound accompanied by a smooth typing experience. While the Milky Yellow switch offers a buttery and bassy feel, the Cream Black Pro switch delivers a creamy and snappy typing sensation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro, it is evident that they both utilize nylon for their bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer composition, which absorbs more sound and results in a duller and rounder sound. This means that both switches will likely provide a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel when it comes to the bottom housing.
However, when it comes to the top housing, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow features a nylon top housing, while the V3 Cream Black Pro boasts a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile compared to the duller sound produced by nylon. Additionally, the polycarbonate top housing of the V3 Cream Black Pro allows for better RGB lighting visibility due to its translucent nature. This contrast in materials may result in a noticeable difference in sound and aesthetics between the two switches.
Overall, the choice between the CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the V3 Cream Black Pro will ultimately come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and aesthetic appeal. While both switches share a common nylon bottom housing for a similar typing experience, the difference in top housing materials - with one utilizing nylon and the other using polycarbonate - may create distinct sound profiles and visual effects. It is important for individuals to consider these factors when selecting a switch that best suits their preferences and needs.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch, it can be seen that the Milky Yellow switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Cream Black Pro's 55 grams. However, both switches share the same bottom out force of 65 grams, making them equally medium-heavy in that aspect. The Milky Yellow switch may provide a lighter typing experience, which could be preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming sessions where fatigue might be a concern. On the other hand, the Cream Black Pro switch with a slightly heavier actuation force may appeal to those who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Overall, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for actuation force and typing feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch, it's clear that the V3 Cream Black Pro has a shorter travel distance at 3.3 mm compared to the CAP V2 Milky Yellow's 4 mm. The V3 Cream Black Pro's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the CAP V2 Milky Yellow might be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial key press. Both options offer different experiences based on travel distance, with the V3 Cream Black Pro being the shorter option and the CAP V2 Milky Yellow being the longer one. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance in a linear switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro has an MSRP of $3.77 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Black Pro for $2.70.
The Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
In terms of sound, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow is known for its thocky, bassy, and low-pitched qualities, resulting in a deep, rich, and satisfying sound profile. On the other hand, the V3 Cream Black Pro is characterized by a high-pitched sound that is sharp and crisp. Depending on personal preference, the Caps Milky Yellow may provide a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, while the Cream Black Pro offers a sharper and more defined sound. Ultimately, the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to the feel, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow is praised for its buttery keystroke experience, offering a smooth and fluid typing sensation. Conversely, the V3 Cream Black Pro is known for its creamy and bouncy feel, providing a silky sensation and spring-like feedback when typing. Additionally, the Cream Black Pro is described as snappy and polished, ensuring a responsive and refined typing experience. Both switches offer unique tactile sensations that cater to different preferences, whether you prefer a smooth and effortless feel or a more lively and responsive typing experience.
In conclusion, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow and Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switches offer distinct sound and feel profiles that cater to different preferences. While the Milky Yellow provides a deep and rich sound with a buttery keystroke experience, the Cream Black Pro boasts a high-pitched sound with a creamy and bouncy feel. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, you can achieve satisfying results with either switch based on your individual typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron CAP V2 Milky Yellow and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switches, consider the following factors. If you prioritize a smooth keystroke experience with enhanced stability and reduced wobble, along with a thocky and bassy sound profile, the CAP V2 Milky Yellow may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a creamy and bouncy typing sensation paired with a high-pitched and crisp sound, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro could be more fitting for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and preferences in sound and feel.
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